THE INSPECTOR.

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

THE INSPECTOR.

Yes. I myself have spoken to her—­several
times.—­Only a few words, however; she is
far from communicative. But—–­

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

But Norwegian it was?

THE INSPECTOR.

Thoroughly good Norwegian—­perhaps with
a little north-country accent.

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

[Gazing straight before him in amazement, whispers.]
That too?

MAIA.

[A little hurt and jarred.] Perhaps this lady has
been one of your models, Rubek? Search your
memory.

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

[Looks cuttingly at her.] My models?

MAIA.

[With a provoking smile.] In your younger days, I
mean. You are said to have had innumerable models—­long
ago, of course.

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

[In the same tone.] Oh no, little Frau Maia.
I have in reality had only one single model.
One and only one—­for everything I have
done.

THE INSPECTOR.

[Who has turned away and stands looking out to the
left.] If you’ll excuse me, I think I will
take my leave. I see some one coming whom it
is not particularly agreeable to meet. Especially
in the presence of ladies.

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

[Looking in the same direction.] That sportsman there?
Who is it?

THE INSPECTOR.

It is a certain Mr. Ulfheim, from—–­

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

Oh, Mr. Ulfheim—–­

THE INSPECTOR.

—­the bear-killer, as they call him—–­

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

I know him.

THE INSPECTOR.

Who does not know him?

PROFESSOR RUBEK.

Very slightly, however. Is he on your list of
patients—­at last?

THE INSPECTOR.

No, strangely enough—­not as yet.
He comes here only once a year—­on his way
up to his hunting-grounds.—­Excuse me for
the moment—–­